Castle Walls

Update:

Japan wasn't always as peaceful as it is now. In olden times, feudal lords, called daimyo in Japanese, had to protect their territory against enemy invaders and built strong fortresses, magnificient castles, and high defense walls. Let's take a look at the history and characteristics of these defenses!

The Characteristics of Japanese Castles

Japanese castle walls were constructed to encompass castles and towns. This was done to protect the territory and lives of the samurai class.

The Beauty of Japanese Castles

Originally, castles were mainly constructed on mountaintops to offer protection to the area. However, as their status changed from serving as a defense to becoming a symbol of status and power where public affairs were managed, they were also constructed on flatland areas.

Did the Daimyo Live In The Castle?

During times of intense warfare, castles were used as guard and control towers to keep a very close eye on the war stituation. When the country entered more peaceful times, however, they mainly fulfilled a symbolic role; the feudal lords used to live in a separated palace inside the castle walls.

Castles Like in Olden Times

It is said that over twenty thousand castles have been constructed in all of Japan. But due to disasters such as wars and fires, as well as the impact from the government's castle demolition policy, there are only twelve castles that remain as they were at the time of their construction. Some of them have been designated as world heritage sites and national treasures.

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is located in Hyogo Prefecture and it is one of the most famous castles in Japan. It's also known as Shirasagi-jo which literally translates to White Heron Castle, due to its beautiful shape resembling a while heron spreading its wings. In its 400 years of history, Himeji Castle has remained surprisingly intact despite all the wars.

Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle is located in Nagano Prefecture. The general image of a castle tower, which is symbolic of any Japanese castle, is white walls, but Matsumoto Castle's characteristic is its black walls with fewer white parts.

Inuyama Castle

Inuyama Castle in Aichi Prefecture is a strong castle, protected by the cliffs behind it. It was built in 1537 and can look back on a history of over 500 years.